Prettyisprettydoes is dedicated to all things that make you look and feel pretty.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...and those of us holding the mascara wand.

After two decades of covering the beauty industry, I've come to learn what makes it so alluring. Finding the perfect shade of makeup to match your skin tone, adding a swipe of eyeliner to give your tired eyes a lift, discovering an innovative new product line, or indulging in a totally luxurious spa treatment. My experiences have been documented in magazines, newspapers and websites worldwide. I've tested newly formulated products in the lab, explored hair removal options, shopped for lipstick, added shine to my hair and succumbed to massage marathons--all in the name of beauty. I've written press releases, hosted makeover events and co-authored a Do-It-Yourself Beauty book (Alloy). On this blog, I write about products and services that I come across every day as well as those that have been provided by publicists or the companies that make them. Either way, I write what I think. I hope to share some of my insights--and bring you the latest, greatest beauty news right here. Join me in the quest to find all things pretty.

Monday, April 13, 2009

In honor of Earth Day this month, many beauty companies are going green and launching new organic and earth-friendly products. And as part of a special Earth Day promotion, a portion of proceeds from any Physician's Formula Organic Wear purchase ($7-$14) will go to Global Green USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to "fostering a global value shift toward a sustainable and secure future by reconnecting humanity with the environment." In addition, you get a free lip gloss with a purchase of the blush/bronzer and a free mascara when you buy the tinted moisturizer. Christina Applegate and Laura Linney are fans. Here's why: The brand's EcoCert seal means it's internationally recognized certified organic, ie: the company guarantees the genuine practice of environmental respect throughout the formulation and manufacturing of the product, 100% of the total ingredients are of a natural origin and 16% of the total ingredients are produced from organic farming. It's 100% free of harsh chemicals, synthetic preservatives, parabens, GMO's (genetically modified organisms), synthetic colors, synthetic fragrances and it's cruelty free. OK, we get it. It's all good. But what about the makeup itself? Made with OrganiSoy to help even skin tone and Eco-Olive, a natural antioxidant that helps shield skin from harsh environmental factors, the fine Italian powder offers buildable color to naturally enhance and accentuate cheeks. I swap the conveniently compact mini brush that's included for my favorite full-size model, brush it across the product to evenly blend the two shades and swipe it on. The color is subtle but can be layered to meet your desired coverage. The compact is equally eco-friendly. At first, it looks a bit cheap in the package but take it out and it feels totally substantial. It looks like it's made of a light-colored wood (but it's really recyclable paper!) and is adorned with green leaves. One side opens to reveal the product and the other houses the mini brush and mirror. It snaps shut easily and securely without any cumbersome latches or hinges (or at least none that show). All in all, it makes me excited for spring. Also try the Loose Powder, Matte Finishing and Bronzing Veil, Eye Shadow Duo, Eyeliner Pencil, Lip Veil and Foundation, all available at Target, Duane Reade, CVS and other mass retailers. Additional info at www.physiciansformula.com.*This Saturday from 10AM to 6PM, stop by the Go Green Expo at the Hilton Hotel in Manhattan (1335 Avenue of the Americas at 53rd Street). Just bring any old plastic compact to the Physician's Formula booth and trade it in for an Organic Wear 2-in-1 blush/bronzer recyclable paper compact for FREE!

About Me

Mom of Harrison (age 3) and Ava (age 2), married to Jacques Brooks, and long-time freelance writer. On this blog, I write about products and services that I come across every day as well as those that have been provided by publicists or the companies that make them. Either way, I write what I think. Enjoy!